The North Shore Neighbourhood House (NSNH) redevelopment project is a pivotal community initiative located in the heart of Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver. The existing facility, which has long served the area, no longer meets the evolving needs of the community. In response, the City of North Vancouver, alongside key partners Hollyburn Family Services, Catalyst Community Developments Society, and Care BC, has come together to transform the site into a modern community hub. This redevelopment aligns with the City’s vision of fostering a more inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable community.
Affordable Housing and Integrated Facility
Catalyst Community Developments Society, a BC-based not-for-profit developer, leads the housing component of the project. With a mission to create affordable rental housing that serves today’s diverse population, Catalyst is well-regarded for building vibrant, affordable, and inspiring rental homes that enhance livability. Partnering with Catalyst is Care BC (Health and Home Care Society of BC), a non-profit organization that operates the Family Respite Centre, offering critical healthcare and supportive services such as adult day care and overnight respite care for seniors. Together, these organizations are committed to addressing both housing and healthcare needs within one integrated facility.
Source: City of North Vancouver
The NSNH redevelopment will be completed in three phases, with Phase 1—at the corner of 144 St. George and East 2nd Ave—currently under construction by Kindred. This phase will feature a 6-storey, wood-frame, mixed-use building. The upper floors will offer 89 below-market rental housing units, operated by Catalyst, and the ground floor will house the Family Respite Centre, operated by Care BC.
Modern Livability and Community Integration
Catalyst’s proposed 6-storey building will deliver a wide range of affordable housing options designed to appeal to a broad demographic, from individuals to families. The 89 units include 15 studio apartments, 40 one-bedroom units, 20 two-bedroom units, and 14 three-bedroom family units.
The building also prioritizes community interaction and well-being through the inclusion of indoor and outdoor amenities. The below-market rental units will have access to 810 square feet of indoor amenity space and nearly 3,000 square feet of outdoor space, fostering a sense of community among residents. Bicycle storage facilities include 134 secure spaces for residents and 12 short-term spaces outside the building, promoting alternative transportation options. For vehicles, there are 37 underground parking stalls available, along with provisions for electric vehicle charging stations, further underlining the project’s sustainability goals.
Source: City of North Vancouver
Care BC’s Family Respite Centre
The Family Respite Centre will be a facility offering 18 private bedrooms with ensuites for overnight respite care, as well as 25 spaces for adult day care programs. This service is essential for families caring for loved ones with dementia, allowing caregivers time to rest and recharge while their loved ones receive professional care in a homelike, nurturing environment. The inclusion of 5,190 square feet of indoor and over 4,200 square feet of outdoor amenity space ensures that seniors have access to safe, comfortable areas for recreation, social interaction, and rest.
Designing for Sustainability and Safety
The NSNH redevelopment will be a model for environmentally responsible and sustainable development in the North Shore. Catalyst is committed to meeting Step 3 of the BC Energy Step Code, exceeding the 2017 National Energy Code for Buildings by at least 15%. Key features will include high-efficiency appliances, electric vehicle charging stations, connection to the Lonsdale Energy Corporation’s district energy system, bicycle storage, low-VOC materials, and native species landscaping.
In addition, the project integrates Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, ensuring that the building layout enhances natural surveillance, access control, and territorial reinforcement. Key features include large windows overlooking public areas, clear and secure entrances, and well-lit pathways and parking areas.
A Lasting Legacy for Lower Lonsdale
Source: City of North Vancouver
Phase 1 construction is underway and is expected to be completed by fall 2025, while construction of Phase 2 is scheduled to start in October 2024. The NSNH redevelopment is poised to become a cornerstone of the Lower Lonsdale community. As this transformative project progresses through its additional phases, it promises to create lasting positive impacts—a new home for its residents and a model of integrated urban living for North Vancouver.
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